Bennett’s Bird move right out of left field

IN his own words, Wayne Bennett has led his horse to water and now it’s time for it to drink.

Jack Bird’s move to right centre is the latest effort to spark something in Brisbane’s prized recruit, with his time in the halves only exacerbating his woes.

Bird is yet to contribute a try assist or even break the line in a Broncos jersey since the utility’s high-profile move from Cronulla.

The switch comes at the expense of James Roberts, who will move to the left and form a potentially deadly combination with Anthony Milford, Corey Oates and Darius Boyd.

“I wanted to help him get back to his form and part of the process there is to position him where he’s comfortable and take a bit of pressure off him,” Bennett said of Bird.

“Confidence is something ... you can take them to water but can’t make them drink.

“He knows I’ve got confidence in him and that he’s wanted at the club.”

Manly coach Trent Barrett has known Jack Bird long enough to ensure he remains in his plans tonight.

Barrett said he was one of several Broncos boasting individual brilliance his side would have to contain.

“I haven’t been across what’s going on [with his form this season] but I’ve known Jack for a long time and he’s a terrific talent,” Barrett said yesterday.